Alec Baldwin Opens Up About Health Struggles After 'Rust' Incident

The actor discusses the physical and mental toll the 2021 tragedy has taken on his life.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:33pm

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An abstract close-up photograph of shattered glass and crumpled film equipment, using dramatic high-contrast lighting to create a somber, glamorous mood.The devastating aftermath of the 'Rust' incident has left a lasting impact on Alec Baldwin's health and career.Santa Fe Today

Alec Baldwin has revealed the significant health struggles he has faced in the aftermath of the 2021 'Rust' incident that left cinematographer Halyna Hutchins dead. Baldwin told The Hollywood Reporter that the tragedy deeply impacted his health, career, and personal life, causing him to suffer from orthostatic hypotension, black out multiple times, and require physical therapy. Despite the challenges, Baldwin returned to Montana to fulfill a settlement agreement and finish the film.

Why it matters

The 'Rust' incident has had far-reaching consequences for Baldwin, both professionally and personally. His candid discussion of the physical and mental toll it has taken sheds light on the human impact of such high-profile tragedies, even for those at the center of them.

The details

Baldwin said the 'Rust' situation was 'very painful' and that he 'wound up staying home a lot' and 'hardly worked at all' in the years following. He revealed he suffered from orthostatic hypotension, a condition that caused him to black out multiple times, and needed physical therapy. Despite his health struggles, Baldwin returned to Montana to finish filming 'Rust' as part of a settlement agreement with Halyna Hutchins' husband.

  • In 2024, involuntary manslaughter charges against Baldwin were dismissed with prejudice.
  • Baldwin had to return to Montana to finish filming 'Rust' in the years following the 2021 incident.

The players

Alec Baldwin

A 68-year-old actor known for roles in '30 Rock' and other films, who was involved in the 2021 'Rust' incident that left cinematographer Halyna Hutchins dead.

Hilaria Baldwin

Alec Baldwin's 42-year-old wife, with whom he shares seven children.

Halyna Hutchins

The cinematographer who was killed in the 2021 'Rust' incident.

Matthew Hutchins

Halyna Hutchins' husband, who filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Alec Baldwin in February 2022.

Kim Basinger

Alec Baldwin's ex-wife, with whom he shares a daughter named Ireland Baldwin.

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What they’re saying

“That was unspeakably difficult to deal with.”

— Alec Baldwin

“I don't want to leave my house anymore. I don't. I don't want to work anymore. I don't. I really don't. I want to retire and stay home with my kids.”

— Alec Baldwin

“I told them if it weren't for you, I wouldn't have survived all of the Rust situation, so thank you.”

— Alec Baldwin

The takeaway

The 'Rust' incident has had a profound and lasting impact on Alec Baldwin's health, career, and personal life. His candid discussion of the physical and mental toll it has taken sheds light on the human cost of such high-profile tragedies, even for those at the center of them.